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Event six of the 11-round championship is set to begin this week, with the Atlantic’s hurricane season producing favourable swell outlook for the waters off Long Island, New York.

Reigning world champion Kelly Slater comes into the event fresh from a win in Tahiti last week which took him into the lead on the 2011 world title race.

“It was definitely a special win for me, but there are several events remaining this season,” he said.

“I missed Jeffreys Bay and I’m carrying a 13th from Brazil so I don’t have any more opportunities for throwaways. It looks like we’ll have some waves for New York which will be great. It will definitely be different.”

Slater will face Australia's Daniel Ross and local wildcard Balaram Stack in the opening round of competition.

Jordy Smith, who lies second behind Slater in the standings, has withdrawn with a rib injury. so his place goes to Travis Logie.

Third-placed Joel Parkinson will compete in New York for the first time, and hopes for a solid result after an uncharacteristic early elimination last week in Tahiti.

“Starting in Tahiti, this is the part of the year where the frontrunners distinguish themselves,” Parkinson said.

“We have a lot of events back-to-back and someone can really get on a roll here. New York will be interesting and I’m happy to be here.”

Event organizers will convene on Tuesday morning at 7am to assess conditions for a possible 7:30am start.